Toxic algae bloom warning for River Hamble
Public advised to avoid contact with water
Dog walkers and visitors are being warned about a potentially toxic blue green algae bloom affecting the River Hamble, confined mainly to the Botley area. The algae has not been confirmed throughout the rest of the river, but conditions can change and users should remain vigilant
Following an alert from the Environment Agency, Eastleigh Borough Council is advising members of the public to avoid any contact with the water until further notice. Dog owners in particular are urged to prevent their pets from entering or drinking from the water.
Blue green algae can produce harmful toxins that may pose risks to both humans and animals. Reported symptoms following contact or ingestion can include skin rashes, eye irritation, blistering, stomach pain, diarrhoea, and nausea.
Anyone who believes they, their child, or their pet may have been affected after coming into contact with the water is advised to seek medical attention immediately. Pet owners should contact their veterinary surgeon without delay.
Suspected sightings of blue green algae can be reported to the Environment Agency Incident Hotline on 0800 80 70 60, or by emailing photographic evidence to [email protected].
Algal blooms - public health advice
You can’t tell if an algal bloom in the sea, a lake or river is toxic just by looking at it, so it’s safest to assume it is. Not all blooms can be seen by the naked eye, and their toxins can still be there after the bloom has gone away. Therefore, it is important to follow warnings that are in place and the public health advice below:
• Keep yourself, children, and pets away from the water in the area affected by the bloom.
• If there is contact with the water, wash thoroughly with soap and water or rinse off your dog.
• If you, your child or dog becomes unwell with skin irritation, hay fever-like symptoms, nausea and diarrhoea or any other symptoms, seek medical or veterinary help and let them know there has been contact with water where an algal bloom has been reported.
• Follow signage advice in the area and report blooms to the Environment Agency if you suspect a bloom and signage is absent.